The ambitious Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project, which was at one point a source of pride and symbol of Telangana’s progress, is currently the focal point of controversy. Initiated by former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) following the creation of the state, the project was intended to be a game-changer for the irrigation sector of the state and the cornerstone of his political legacy.
KCR had set his eyes high on Kaleshwaram, hoping that it would grant him a third term in a row by winning over the confidence of the farmer community. But mere days ahead of the recent state polls, shocking fissures and construction faults were seen in critical segments of the project, such as the Medigadda barrage. What was previously hailed as a monumental success soon became a major electoral blunder for the BRS (Bharat Rashtra Samithi).
Pouring oil on the fire, a detailed report by the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) has now vindicated the worst fears. The report, following a 14-month probe, found that three key components — Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages — are structurally unsafe and cannot be used in their present state. The findings suggest that these barrages may collapse suddenly, and that would pose serious threats.
The NDSA report points out severe failures in design, building, and maintenance. It discovered that portions of the structures had already collapsed and several holes had formed in both the upper and lower decks. Most disturbingly, compulsory soil testing was apparently skipped, and vital design modifications, including changes to barrage locations, were undertaken without proper assessment.
More disturbing is the discovery that seasonal safety checks, mandated by the Dam Safety Act of 2021, were not conducted prior to the monsoon — a serious lapse in safety procedures.
This explosive report is now likely to be the key in the current investigation by the Justice Ghosh Commission, which is already probing irregularities in the project. Experts opine that the commission might even call former ministers T. Harish Rao and K.T. Rama Rao (KTR), who were key figures in the BRS government, for questioning.
Political experts opine that the political damage caused by the Kaleshwaram debacle may prove detrimental to the BRS party, smudging its image and diminishing its leadership legitimacy before the next elections.
While Telangana struggles with the consequences of what was earlier celebrated as a game-changing initiative, questions regarding accountability, governance, and safety persistently drive the debate.